The company’s statement: “WWE has operated in the Middle East for nearly 20 years and has developed a sizable and dedicated fan base. Considering the heinous crime committed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, the Company faced a very difficult decision as it relates to its event scheduled for November 2 in Riyadh. Similar to other U.S.-based companies who plan to continue operations in Saudi Arabia, the Company has decided to uphold its contractual obligations to the General Sports Authority and stage the event. Full year 2018 guidance is predicated on the staging of the Riyadh event as scheduled.”

WWE has avoided mentioning Saudi Arabia on television over the past two weeks. Crown Jewel is set to take place at King Saud University Stadium, with Triple H & Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker & Kane, the eight-man World Cup tournament, Braun Strowman vs. Brock Lesnar for the vacant Universal Championship, AJ Styles defending the WWE Championship against Daniel Bryan, and The New Day getting their Tag Team title rematch against Cesaro & Sheamus announced.